The BM Education Chandigarh Half Marathon Ended Successfully

Chandigarh: The BM Education Chandigarh Half Marathon, organised by Sarmang Adventure Tours and NBT, successfully concluded on July 16, 2023. This extraordinary event, held under the slogan “Run Against Drugs, Run for Life,” successfully rallied a wide range of people to advocate for a drug-free society and a healthy lifestyle.

Participants started the marathon at 4:00 AM, full of expectation and resolve. Brig Parvinder Singh, Commander of NCC Group, Chandigarh, kicked off the event with a bang at the 5:00 AM flag-off ceremony, setting the tone for an inspiring run to the finish line.

Participants set out on runs of 2, 5, 10, or 21 km, their efforts symbolising a pledge to lead drug-free lives and build healthy futures. The new course included an exciting double loop that took runners through several of Chandigarh’s most famous monuments, highlighting the city’s splendour and serving to further drive home the message of solidarity and fortitude.

Mr. Anil Mohan, the RRCA Certified Race Director and the Founder of Sarmang Adventure Tours, said, “We are immensely proud of the participants who joined us today, running against drugs and for life.” They were extremely motivational in their commitment to a healthy lifestyle and the cause. Even though it rained just before the event was about to begin, everything went ahead without a hitch. Heavy rains a few weeks before the half marathon prompted us to switch to a double loop starting at Bapu Dham Chauk, as was previously announced. Participants’ determination to finish the race in the rain gave us hope that the BM Education Chandigarh Half Marathon and others like it may make a real impact in the fight for a drug-free society.

He thanked the city government for allowing the marathon and the people of Chandigarh for their support.

The event was not just a test of physical endurance but also an opportunity to honor exceptional athletes who demonstrated remarkable skill and determination. The chief guest Lieutenant General (Retd) Gurpal Singh Sangha, AVSM, SM, VSM, felicitated the winners. The award ceremony, held at 6:30 PM, celebrated the achievements of the following winners across all categories:

21-kilometre Category Winners (Male):

– First Place: 21200 – ANMOL CHANDAN

– Second Place: 21169 – SURENDER MALIK

– Third Place: 21196 – RABIUL ISLAM

21-kilometre Category Winners (Female):

– First Place: 21189 – SNEHA JHA

– Second Place: 21193 – ANJALI RANI

– Third Place: 21112 – PRECIOSA WILK

10-kilometre Category Winners (Male):

– First Place: 10056 – DEEPAK

– Second Place: 10024 – ANURAG HUNDAL

– Third Place: 50329 – Amit Kumar

10-kilometre Category Winners (Female):

– First Place: 10232 – NANDINI SINGH

– Second Place: 10143 – PAYAL SINGH

– Third Place: 10124 – MANU YADAV

5-kilometre Category Winners (Male):

– First Place: 50176 – MOHD ASIF

– Second Place: 50177 – MOHD WASEEM

– Third Place: 50200 – PANKAJ

5-kilometre Category Winners (Female):

– First Place: 50103 – HARNNOR TOMAR

– Second Place: 50196 – OJASWINI NAMJOSHI

– Third Place: 50234 – RISHITA CHHETRI

“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and participants who showcased exceptional sportsmanship throughout the event,” added Ms. Ravi Kumar, the  Co-founder of NBT. “Their dedication and commitment have made the BM Education Chandigarh Half Marathon a resounding success. We are grateful to be a part of their journey and share their passion for a drug-free and healthier society.”

Mr. Himank Arora was particularly struck by the wide-ranging age groups represented in the marathon. The event saw the enthusiastic involvement of children as young as 6 years old, teenagers, adults, and spirited senior citizens nearing the age of 80. This year’s marathon made significant strides in promoting inclusivity by ensuring the participation of para-athletes. Among the many inspiring stories that emerged from the marathon, one particular incident stood out.  A woman, despite having a fracture in her hand, displayed remarkable determination and courage as she pressed on and finished the race. As the co-founder of NBT, he understands the importance of events like the Chandigarh Half Marathon in creating a positive impact on individuals and the community as a whole. Such events not only promote physical well-being but also foster a sense of unity, camaraderie, and mutual support among participants.

Mr. Gurphool Singh, a 73 years runner from Dehradun who ran 21 kilometres, shared his inspiring story of how he is running every day at this age. Col. Krishan Singh Badhwar, SM, motivated everyone to live a disciplined life and focused on the importance of health.

The BM Education Chandigarh Half Marathon served as a testament to the power of unity, determination, and community engagement. By embracing an active lifestyle and advocating against drug abuse, the participants have set a remarkable example for others to follow.

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